Primary Spanish Language Acquisition Teacher

At Awty, we believe that students learn best, and faculty perform best in a culture of vibrant diversity. Diversity is an essential quality of our school environment; our commitment to learning and the pursuit of excellence can occur only in such a context. It helps us guide our students to become responsible world citizens. Our commitment to learning about and respecting one another’s diversity brings distinct richness to the Awty experience for students, alumni, employees, and parents.

Position Overview: Second Language (Language Acquisition) Teacher is responsible for creating a nurturing and stimulating learning environment that fosters academic, social, and emotional growth with our students in the Primary division. Key responsibilities include planning and implementing engaging and developmentally appropriate lessons, assessing student progress, differentiating instruction to meet individual needs, and building strong relationships with students and families. The ideal candidate is a passionate educator with a strong understanding of the language development continuum, language acquisition best practices, and child development.  

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• BA or equivalent in Elementary Education, Language Acquisition (or related field)
• At least five years full-time teaching experience
• Heritage-Level fluency in the target language(s)

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Master degree in Elementary Education (or related field)
• International and/or independent school experience
• International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program (PYP) experience
• Certification in elementary education and/or related subject area
• Demonstrated digital proficiency in current tools and platforms (electronic gradebooks, Learning Management Systems, online learning platforms, digital portfolios, AI assisted technology, etc.)

APPLICANTS SHOULD:

• Possess excellent teaching skills and pedagogy related to language acquisition and language learning
• Be well versed in current research and best practices in teaching and learning
• Foster cross-cultural understanding within the classroom and curriculum
• Create a positive learning environment that is rich in structure, developmentally appropriate and academically rigorous
• Demonstrate understanding of, and commitment to, childhood social, emotional and intellectual development within an international school setting

THE ROLE: A teacher at The Awty International School is expected to meet the following expectations:

• Effectively teach second language acquisition, including the undertaking of appropriate lesson preparation and assessing and evaluating students
• Develop and implement engaging lesson plans aligned with curriculum standards
• Create a positive and inclusive learning environment that fosters student growth and development
• Differentiate instruction to meet the diverse needs of all learners
• Assess student learning, use data to adapt learning plans, and provide timely feedback
• Manage classroom behavior effectively and consistently
• Collaborate with colleagues to develop and implement best practices
• Promote language acquisition through a variety of instructional strategies, including immersion, explicit instruction, and authentic language use
• Create opportunities for students to practice language skills in meaningful contexts
• Provide support for all learners on the language acquisition continuum 
• Foster cross-cultural understanding and appreciation
• Incorporate cultural elements into lessons and activities
• Encourage students to develop empathy and respect for different cultures
• Communicate regularly with parents about student progress and concerns
• Build strong relationships with parents and involve them in their child's education
• Organize parent-teacher conferences and other opportunities for parent involvement
• Participate in professional development opportunities to stay current with best practices in education
• Attend and positively contribute to grade, faculty, division and all-school meetings as necessary
• Supervise students during lunch, recess, morning arrival and afternoon dismissal, and other non-instructional times
• Assist with school-wide initiatives and events
• Maintain accurate records and documentation
• Adhere to school policies and procedures

TO APPLY:

Submit your application through the school's website.  All applicants should include a cover letter, current résumé and three professional references (including your most recent direct supervisor).  

The Awty International School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, ethnic or religious beliefs, disability, or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship, and athletic and other school-administered programs or in its employment practices. We actively seek diversity among faculty and administration as well as among students.

The position is a one-year renewable contract, with competitive salary and conditions. Applications should be submitted as soon as possible.